Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu Plus — these subscription, on-demand providers are all investing heavily to step up their original content to attract and retain members. ...

To beef up its programming menu, Amazon last week posted 10 new pilot episodes online. It’s a repeat of last year’s crowdsourcing experiment that resulted in Amazon’s first two original comedy series, including the John Goodman-led “Alpha House,” as well as an upcoming trio of kids’ cartoons. ...

Netflix inked a deal with DreamWorks Animation last year for 300 hours of new programming, including the streaming service’s first original kids’ show, “Turbo FAST,” which debuted in December. It also has a multi-year pact with Disney for several live-action series revolving around Marvel characters. ...

Funny thing. A year ago, Amazon approached TAG about signing a contract. Ultimately we didn't reach an agreement because of changes they wanted in some of the contract documents, but today the company's legal reps called us again.

And it looks like ... this time ... we'll reach a deal.

I certainly hope so. When a new cartoon studio is launched, it's good to attract talent that knows how to execute. A collective bargaining agreement that pays industry-level wages and benefits will help to do that.

1 comments:

Could you elaborate on Amazon signing with the union. Will there be a physical studio in LA that is ran by Amazon and actual production work will be done there? I know FAST is being done over at Titmouse. I watch the show with my kids, its good stuff.

The thoughts and observations of the leaders of The Animation Guild (TAG), Local 839 IATSE. Jason MacLeod is the Business Representative, Laura Hohman is the President. Mike Sauer is Assistant to the Business Representative.

This weblog reflects their individual personal opinions and does not necessarily represent the official position of the Animation Guild.

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